Every now and then, a young king comes along who’s different. Not just talented—but driven, focused, and built different. That’s exactly who AubreyAumelo “Sauce” Thomas is.
Straight outta Akron, Ohio (currently living in Arizona), Sauce (3rd grader) is on a mission, and the world is finally starting to notice. He’s currently in the running for Sports Illustrated’s sponsored event, Youth Athlete of the Year, and he needs your vote to claim that #1 spot!
Sauce Isn’t Just Playing Ball—He’s Living It
For Sauce, basketball isn’t just a sport—it’s a lifestyle. It’s where he finds peace, power, and purpose. “It’s just something about when I step on the court—I feel so alive and free,” he says. And when you watch him play, you can feel that. He gives 110% every single game, no matter the score, no matter the crowd. His hustle is nonstop, and his energy is contagious.
Raised Right. Rooted in Faith. Inspired by Legends.
What makes Sauce special goes way beyond the game. He’s grounded. He’s humble. He’s led by faith, family, and that killer Mamba Mentality. He looks up to the greats like Kobe Bryant, but his biggest inspiration? His father, who’s always right there—rebounds, workouts, encouragement, prayers—pushing Sauce to be the best version of himself.
And you know how we do in Akron—this city builds greatness. Sauce is carrying on that legacy with pride, reppin’ his hometown every time he laces up. He’s young, but his mindset? Grown-man level.
A True Leader on and off the Court
One of his proudest moments? When his squad was down bad in a tough tournament, Sauce didn’t fold—he led. While some players hang their heads, Sauce turned up. He hyped his teammates, dug deep, and helped them bounce back and take the win. That’s what separates him from the rest—he got that dog in him, win or lose!
Let’s Get Sauce to the Top!
Sauce is already ranked as the #1 scout for the class of 2034, but let’s get him in the #1 spot for the Young Athlete of the Year. Right now, Sauce is sittin’ at #3 in his group, but we’re not done yet! Voting for the Top 20 ends Thursday, August 7th at 7PM PDT. We need the city, the state, the whole community to come together and show love.
Or vote with a donation to support two amazing causes: the V Foundation for Cancer Research and Why Not You Foundation. This contest is sponsored by Sports Illustrated and 3 Brand, so you know this is big for the kids!
Click here to cast your vote: [Vote for AubreyAumelo “Sauce” Thomas]
Let’s make sure the world knows what we already know—Sauce is THAT dude. He’s got the talent, the heart, and the hustle to take it all the way. Vote Aubrey Aumelo for Youth Athlete of the Year—because real ones recognize real.
If you’re not following Sauce on IG, please do so now @aubreyaumelo. Check out some of his highlights and take a front-row seat to his greatness because this kid is going places.
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